Shellen learns a few new tricks

January 11, 2007|MATT KOPSEA Tribune Staff Writer

MISHAWAKA -- C.J. Shellen jumped at the opportunity to expand his resume. "I wanted to be known for being more than just a jump shooter," explained Marian's 5-foot-10 senior sharp-shooter. "That's why I spent a lot of time this past summer at Midwest Basketball Academy working with Rod Creech. Being there not only gave me the confidence I now have to be able to drive the ball to the basket, it also helped me adapt to my new role as a leader." Shellen will put all his newfound skills on display Friday night when Marian (2-8, 0-3 Northern Indiana Conference) hosts conference foe St. Joseph's (8-3, 2-1 NIC). Known for his accuracy from 3-point range, Shellen had a hunch that changes might be in order for him. "In the past, the only thing I was really counted on was for my outside shooting," said Shellen prior to practice on Tuesday. "After speaking with (Marian) Coach (Ron) Dietz, though, I knew he was expecting more out of me. "Being a senior now, I know one of my responsibilities is getting everyone else involved. The nice thing about this group is that we all get along with each other. Trying to get the younger kids to understand what it is we're trying to accomplish has been easy because we're all on the same page." Watching Shellen broaden his horizons has been satisfying indeed for Coach Dietz. "C.J. has always been a good shooter. Now, he's doing more of the little things for us," Dietz explained. "Instead of just being a scorer, he's now developed good court sense. He's looking to get the others involved and has had a positive effect on the others with his leadership skills. "He represents everything we ask of our players. He competes hard every day in practice and then gives us everything he's got during the games." While Shellen still likes roaming the perimeter, don't be surprised to also find him banging around the inside. "Spending time at the MBA really helped improve my all-around game," said Shellen, averaging 14.9 points per game. "I'm not only a better defender, but I also see the whole court better now. Instead of always wanting to spot up for a 3, I've learned to spot the open man and have done a better job in getting the ball to them." Staff writer Matt Kopsea: mkopsea@sbtinfo.com (574) 235-6315